Accent pillows with graphic patterns add a contemporary touch to any couch or bed. This design with metallic thread is hand-woven by artisans in Rajasthan, India.Langdon Hex Pillow ($168).
3 /10
Clean Lines
These bright white square containers elegantly frame your plants, allowing them to take center stage. Blox Galvanized Hi-Gloss White Planters (from $24.95; powder coated galvanized steel).
4 /10Mary Costa
Unconventional Art Placement
Sometimes what's modern about an object is its placement. Here, a colorful portrait adds contrast and intrigue to a black-and-white bathroom.
5 /10
Playful Utility
Modern décor can be fun, too. This three-pound porcelain bookend masquerades as a lightweight balloon. (And is sure to induce smiles from houseguests.)Balloon Animal Dog Bookend ($49).
Hearts are forever, especially illuminated ones. These neon pieces add a joyful and modern glow above a console.Neon Loves Red ($299; includes wall-mounting hardware).
8 /10
Unconventional Shapes
Look for decorative objects in unexpected shapes. These glazed earthenware vases buck the round-shaped vase tradition, acting as much as tabletop sculptures as they do for flower vessels.Totem Vases (from $24).
9 /10
Metallic Accessories
Bright colors and finishes can put a modern spin on a traditional design. These metallic globes might even get the kiddos excited about geography class.Decorative Globe ($38).
10 /10Thomas J. Story
Moody Palette
Go bold with dark colors. Here, a velvet indigo wing chair exudes quiet drama against an ebony-stained TV cabinet.